A Q102 listener asked how to make the Perfect Mint Julep

I am hosting my very first Kentucky Derby Party this year. My problem is that I don't know how to make the perfect mint julep.  I want to know how to make the perfect one.  If I get this down, I'm sure my party will be a success.  I hope you can help me with this.  I am very excited to be hosting this party, but I'm a little nervous about my mint juleps.  PLEASE HELP!
Thanks,
Pam

Hi Pam-
Jay Dickerson,  Resident Bar Chef at EQ @ The Party Source says the perfect mint julep is not so much a formula, but “ceremony”.  A traditional Mint Julep has only four ingredients: mint, bourbon, sugar and water. Jay likes to serve them in a classic silver or pewter julep cup. How do you hold it?  “Only by the bottom and top edges of the cup” says Jay. This allows frost to form on the outside of the cup.

Jay suggests that you always use the freshest mint, frost the glass or metal mug well before serving, use shaved or finely crushed ice, position the mint garnish and straw carefully together (so that each sip includes that wonderful mint aroma), and - most importantly, use good bourbon.

(Here’s a tip from me; keep Jay’s Mint Simple Syrup in the fridge to sweeten iced tea! It’s delicious and refreshing)
Cheers!
Amy

Perfect Mint Julep
Makes 1 mint julep
3 ounces Kentucky bourbon
Mint leaves 
2 tablespoons mint simple syrup, recipe follows
Crush a few mint leaves in the bottom of a hi-ball glass.  Add 2 tablespoons of syrup and muddle ingredients together to release oils from mint. Then fill the glass with crushed ice. Add bourbon and stir until glass is frosted. Top with more crushed ice.  To serve, garnish with a fresh sprig of mint.

Mint Syrup:
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 bunch fresh mint sprigs
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Boil for 5 minutes, without stirring. Pour over a handful of mint and gently crush the mint with a spoon. Refrigerate syrup mixture overnight in a jar with a lid. Remove mint leaves and keep refrigerated. This will be good for several weeks.